“Aww, super cute angel, come to Bua!” Rekha was about to pick the baby up when she heard a voice. “Please STOP, sanitize your hand first.” Rekha was taken aback – perhaps a bit offended too. But when you are a mom of a baby, you want to do everything in your power to keep your baby away from germs and infections…

There are numerous germs around us, many of which can cause diseases in our babies, especially as their immune system is still not properly developed. They may come from anywhere: school, the pet in the house, elevator, at the park, from kids’ toys…is there any way at all to avoid them and protect our baby?

I discussed this problem with my paediatrician. I wanted to know how to control and avoid germs so that I could keep my baby healthy and disease-free. My paediatrician suggested the following secrets and they have really worked for me! My little one is much safer from germs now.
1. Do NOT Hesitate In Saying ‘No’

As moms, we sometimes worry that if we get too defensive or cautious and ask someone to not touch our baby, the person may take offence. But my paediatrician gave me some excellent advice.

He said, “You are the health minister for your family. The first priority for you is to keep your baby and family safe and disease free. Never mind if you are being defensive for your baby’s health and asking someone not to touch your child after sneezing.

Your ultimate aim is a healthy and happy life for your baby. You have the responsibility and power to say “NO” to anyone in any circumstance.”

2. Handwashing and Sanitizing Is The Top Rule Of My House

We often think that our hands are clean because they look clean. But my paediatrician explained that when we have been working on a laptop or talking on the phone, it is not possible that our hands have not been exposed to germs! So, every time you or anyone touches the baby it is a must to sanitize or wash your hands first.

The same rule applies if you are preparing food for your baby, or changing his diapers, feeding your pet, or playing with child. This rule should be implemented by all with no compromises at all.

3. No Kisses Please!

My doctor strictly advised restricting family members, toddlers and friends from kissing the baby on the face and the hands. Kissing can very easily lead to the transmission of germs!

Rather, he asked me to encourage them to kiss on her feet. This way, at least she will not get direct contact with harmful germs.

4. Avoid Crowds and Crowded Places With Your Baby

It is advisable to avoid family gatherings, wedding parties, birthday parties, etc. with an infant. My paediatrician said that at crowded places and in gatherings there are possibilities of infections as many sick people may also come to attend. So it is better to be safe in the home surroundings and avoid crowds as much as we can, till our baby is older.
5. Try To Avoid Visits At Home From a Sick Person

This may be a bit difficult if you get surprise visitors. But it is always better to ask people to check with you before arriving. For anyone coming to pay a visit to you or your baby, check if they have a cough or cold or any such issue at present. If yes, always inform them politely to reschedule the meeting so as to keep your baby away from germs and infection. They will understand.